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See the DrugPatentWatch profile for proscar
How does Proscar affect prostate size? Proscar (finasteride) reduces prostate volume by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone into the more potent DHT. Clinical data show the drug typically shrinks the gland by 20 to 30 percent after six to twelve months of daily use. What results do patients see over time? Most men notice symptom improvement after three to six months. Prostate volume continues to decline for up to two years, after which it usually stabilizes while treatment continues. How long does the shrinkage last if treatment stops? Once Proscar is discontinued, prostate volume and urinary symptoms generally return to pre-treatment levels within six to twelve months. Are there differences between Proscar and generic finasteride? Proscar is the original branded 5 mg finasteride tablet. Generic versions contain the same active ingredient and produce equivalent reductions in prostate size, provided the product meets FDA bioequivalence standards. What side effects concern patients most? The most commonly reported issues are reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, and decreased ejaculate volume. These effects occur in a small percentage of users and often resolve after stopping the drug, though a minority describe persistent symptoms. When does the Proscar patent expire and what does that mean for cost? The key U.S. patents for Proscar expired years ago, so generic finasteride is widely available at a fraction of the brand price. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks remaining formulation or method-of-use patents that could affect future generics or new combinations. Can men combine Proscar with other prostate medications? Doctors sometimes prescribe Proscar together with an alpha-blocker such as tamsulosin for faster symptom relief while the finasteride works on gland size. The combination does not change the expected volume reduction from Proscar alone. Who should avoid Proscar? Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed tablets because finasteride can cause genital abnormalities in a male fetus. Men with known hypersensitivity to finasteride or with certain liver conditions also require caution. [1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/proscar [2] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/019012s050lbl.pdf